A number of things can cause your smile to appear less white over time. Aging, certain foods/beverages, and other factors can result in dull, stained, or discolored teeth. Fortunately, professional teeth whitening can quickly revitalize your smile. At Mapledale Family Dentistry in Woodbridge, a variety of cosmetic dentistry options, such as teeth whitening, are available—read on to learn more.

Professional Teeth Whitening 

At our office for general and cosmetic dentistry in Woodbridge, we offer two types of professional teeth whitening treatments to help you achieve a brighter smile. Our in-office teeth whitening treatment is the fastest way to brighten your teeth by several shades, but we also offer convenient take-home whitening kits that deliver professional results, as well.

In-office whitening takes about one hour and can whiten teeth by up to eight shades in just one appointment. During the treatment session, a professional-strength whitening gel is carefully brushed on the teeth. While the gel remains on the teeth, the bleaching agent gently penetrates tooth enamel to lift away stains and discolorations. Your smile will be noticeably whiter and brighter immediately after treatment.

Take-home whitening kits are a convenient alternative for individuals who do not have the time in their schedule to devote to an in-office whitening session. Just like in-office treatments, take-home kits utilize a professional-strength whitening gel that can whiten teeth by several shades over the course of a few weeks. Take-home kits include two custom trays made to perfectly fit over your teeth. Achieving a brighter smile at home is as simple as adding the whitening gel to the custom trays and wearing the trays for about an hour several times per week.

Tips for Maintaining A Whiter Smile

There are several steps you can take to maintain a whiter smile after having your teeth professionally whitened. Caring for your teeth properly can help your whitening results last longer. Tips for maintaining a whiter smile include:

• Brushing and flossing teeth daily
• Scheduling regular dental checkups with cleanings
• Avoiding foods and beverages known to stain teeth (e.g., coffee and red wine)
• Refraining from tobacco products
• Getting minor whitening touch-ups, as needed

Taking steps to maintain a white smile after having teeth professionally whitened can help you enjoy a brighter smile for several months or even years. To learn more about the professional whitening treatments we offer at our practice for general and cosmetic dentistry, call Mapledale Family Dentistry in Woodbridge at (703) 580-9900.